Problem frames and software engineering

A general account is given of the problem frames approach to the development of software-intensive systems, assuming that the reader is already familiar with its basic ideas. The approach is considered in the light of the long-standing aspiration of software developers to merit a place among practitioners of the established branches of engineering. Some of its principles are examined, and some comments offered on the range of its applicability. A view of the approach is suggested by an important account of engineering in the aeronautical industry: in particular, the problem classes captured by elementary problem frames are likened to those solved in established engineering branches by normal, rather than radical, design. The relative lack of specialisation in software development is identified as an important factor holding back the evolution of normal design practice in some areas.